Washington – Chevron’s CEO stated that it is probable the US Navy will need to escort commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz once it reopens, due to security concerns. The strait has been under threat from Iran and a U.S. blockade on Iranian ports, leading to several maritime incidents recently.
Asked by Margaret Brennan if Chevron would feel safe sending a ship through the strait, CEO Mike Wirth said they need assurance that people on board will be safe, cargo secure, and transit can occur with high confidence. The decision will be made in collaboration with the US Navy and other global military organizations.
Wirth noted that initial transits might require naval escorts due to risks from land-based threats as well as mines. He believes having the navy escorting the first ships would increase safety measures if incidents occurred.
Since the war began, President Trump has given conflicting signals about securing the strait, which carries approximately a fifth of global oil. On Thursday, Trump directed U.S. Navy to “shoot and kill” Iranian boats placing mines in the strait.